Network and methods for integrating individualized clinical test results and nutritional treatment

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides networks and method for linking consumers and nutritional pharmacogeneticists offering personalized nutritional information through a central network site. The network includes a central integration site through which network members communicate with each other. The central integration site stores two or more databases in the storage medium. The databases store biochemical marker data information, nutritional and/or drug data information including a record for association and effect of nutrients with a particular biochemical marker, and/or drug. The network of the invention provides individualized nutritional diagnostic and treatment to consumers on the basis of their genetic test results.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No.11/058,174, filed Feb. 16, 2005, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C.§119 based upon U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/545,677,filed Feb. 17, 2004.

I. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to systems and methods for facilitatingautomated nutritional diagnostic and treatment. More particularly, theinvention relates to an interactive network and method for generatingconsumer individualized status reports.

II. Background of the Invention

The early detection and treatment of numerous diseases could keep manypatients from reaching advanced stages of illness, the treatment ofwhich is a significant part of the financial burden attributed to ournation's health care system. If the public had universal, unrestrictedand easy access to medical information, many diseases could beprevented.

Health care costs currently represent 14% of the United States GrossNational Product and are rising faster than any other component of theConsumer Price Index. Moreover, usually because of an inability to payfor medical services, many people are deprived of access to even themost basic medical care and information. Many people are delayed inobtaining, or are prevented from seeking, medical attention because ofcost, time constraints, or inconvenience. It is obvious that the UnitedStates is facing health-related issues of enormous proportions and thatpresent solutions are not robust.

The complexity and interrelationships of various diseases and thebiochemical markers that may be associated with these diseases aresufficient to tax the capacity of most medical practitioners. To aidmedical practitioners in disease diagnosis, computerized expert systemshave been developed to correlate medical diagnostic data with variousdiseases to guide physicians in prescribing treatments for theirpatients.

A prior attempt at a health care solution for a limited set ofconditions is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,562. A patient's bloodpressure and heart rate are measured and the measurements are sent viatelephone to a remote central computer for storage and analysis. Statusreports are generated for submission to a physician or the patient.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,531,527 describes a similar system, wherein thereceiving office automatically communicates with the physician underpredetermined emergency circumstances.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,838,275 discloses a device for a patient havingelectronics to measure multiple parameters related to a patient'shealth. These parameters are electronically transmitted to a centralsurveillance and control office where a highly trained observerinteracts with the patient. The observer conducts routine diagnosticsessions except when an emergency is noted. The observer determines if anon routine therapeutic response is required, and if so facilitates sucha response. Highly trained people are needed by this system along withthe special measurement apparatus that are embedded in a bed or chair.

Other attempts at a health care solution are exemplified by U.S. Pat.No. 5,012,411 which describes a portable self-contained apparatus formeasuring, storing and transmitting detected physiological informationto a remote location over a communication system. The information isevaluated by a physician or other health professional. As before, highlytrained people are necessary to utilize such an apparatus.

Several other services to provide medical or pharmaceutical advice arenow available via “1-900” telephone numbers, e.g., “Doctors by Phone.”These services are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. A groupof doctors, including some specialties, is available to answer questionsabout health care or medical conditions for people anywhere in theUnited States who call the “1-900” telephone of one of the services. Agroup of registered pharmacists answers questions about medications forthe “1-900” pharmaceutical service.

The prior art medical diagnostic systems do not adequately provide aframework for analyzing the individual patient's clinical test resultsand to correlate such results with a disease biochemical marker patternspecific to that individual. Furthermore, such systems do not addresstherapeutic and/or contraindicated treatment strategies and theinterrelation effect and pattern of metabolism of certain nutrients ordrugs tailored to the individual's specific needs.

The general population is more knowledgeable today about nutrition andits importance in achieving a superior quality of life than ever before,and the trend is growing. The growing interest in the field of nutritionand health care has led to health care practitioners scrambling forknowledge that was not previously considered of critical importance, norwere many practitioners formally trained in. As a result, thousands ofhealth conscience consumers are now desperately seeking practitionerswho are knowledgeable about nutritional treatment programs and in-depthnutritional diagnostics. The knowledge of how to prevent illness,maintain health, and reverse the effects of chronic disease throughdietary or nutritional intervention has become instrumental in wellnessand longevity.

Nutritional supplements are a topic of great public interest. Some usesof nutritional supplements have become part of conventional medicine.For example, scientists have found that the vitamin “folic acid”prevents certain birth defects, and a regimen of vitamins and zinc canslow the progression of the eye disease age-related maculardegeneration. On the other hand, some supplements are considered to becomplementary and alternative medicine. The patient's interest innutritional intervention is growing and classical medical practitionerstoday need a tool to bridge the gap and implement nutritional treatmentoptions.

The advent of worldwide computer networks like the Internet has allowedmany classical or alternative health care providers to reach a virtuallyglobal consumer base with relatively little cost or effort. Health careproviders using the Internet are also able to provide somewhat expandedservices; for example newsletters, distributions of product informationor advertising, or connections to other Internet sites of potentialinterest to their customers. Unfortunately, the majority of health careproviders through the Internet, lack the facility to appreciateconsumer's individualized biochemical needs, based on each person'sunique biological and chemical characteristics.

What is desirable, then, is a way for an expanded universe of consumersto reach an individualized nutritional diagnostic and treatment serviceprovider that provides preventative, diagnostic, and treatment optionsto consumers based on documented research and the consumer's ownbiochemistry. For consumers, electronic communication makes it possibleto acquire large amounts of information tailored to their specificphysiological and chemical needs. The invention described hereinaddresses this and other needs by allowing consumers to keep pace withthe available medical research on the implications of nutrition onfunctions and disorders.

III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the present invention provides an interactive network andmethod for generating an individualized consumer status report thatindicates the consumer's personalized nutritional information on thebasis of the consumer's clinical test results and medical andbiochemical research data. The network of the invention links consumersand nutritional pharmacologists, who analyze consumer's clinical testresults and offer individualized nutritional information to theconsumer, through a central network site.

In one embodiment, clinical test result is a genetic test result orblood chemistry test result.

The network provides a central integration site through whichnutritional pharmacologists and consumers communicate with each other.The central integration site contains a storage medium and at least twodatabases stored in the storage medium. The first database maintainsbiochemical marker data for at least one biochemical marker in thestorage medium. The first database indicates a low value, a high valueand a target value for the biochemical marker indicated in theconsumer's genetic test results. The target value comprises a modevalue, a mean value, or a weighted average value, depending on the typeof the biochemical marker under investigation. The biochemical markerlevel set can also be determined by generating a consumer's percentstatus set that indicates a value for each biochemical marker present inthe consumer's clinical test results.

The second database maintains nutritional data for at least one nutrientin the storage medium, the nutritional data comprising a record forassociation and effect of the nutrient with a particular biochemicalmarker. A consumer has access to the most recent scientific data andabstracts that underlie the basis for recommendation provided to theconsumer on the status report. Such access may be provided through ahyperlink on the database that directly or indirectly connects theconsumer to specific sites that provide scientific publications,abstracts and data that form the basis of the analysis indicated in theconsumer's status report. The analysis is unique for each consumer andreflects the association, affect, or interaction of nutrients and/ordrugs with biochemical and genetic markers that are uniquely associatedwith each individual consumer.

In one embodiment, the individualized consumer status report isgenerated without the access to the clinical test results. In thisembodiment, the consumer's personal knowledge of their own geneticmutations or any known deficiencies or imbalances in their biochemical,physiological or neurological make up may be used as the data inputpoints into the database.

In one embodiment, the storage media contains a third database thatmaintains drug records for determining interaction between drugs andbiochemical and genetic markers.

In another embodiment, the consumer is a healthy individual, asymptomatic patient, or an asymptomatic patient. The nutritionalinformation is provided for diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention of adisease or disorder, comprising, for example, and not by way oflimitation, cardiovascular disease, endocrine imbalance, cognitiveimpairment, immune dysfunction, gastrointestinal difficulties, anxiety,chronic fatigue, MS, eating disorders, depression, epilepsy, PMS, skindisorders, neurological impairment, developmental delay, headache,convulsion and seizure, chest pain, dizziness, irregular heartbeat,fainting, shortness of breath, chest injury, cough, high blood pressure,hyperventilation, numbness, wheezing, inhalation injury, traumatic braininjury, deficiencies in lipid metabolism, hormonal imbalance, hepaticdysfunction, toxicity, tumor, hematological diseases, nitrogenretention, cellular distortion, or a combination thereof, among others.The nutritional information may also be based on a detectable imbalancein brain, heart, kidneys, nervous system, liver, lung, or gut of theconsumer.

The nutritional information includes information one or more nutrientsand/or drugs that regulate the concentration of the biochemical markerindicated in the consumer's clinical test results. Nutrients includeanimal products or plant products comprising herbs, vitamins, minerals,small molecules, lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, electrolytes, enzymes,coenzymes, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the network of the invention provides computernetworks having a user access processor, such as for example, a browser,or a script engine.

In yet another embodiment, the network utilizes the Internet, anintranet, or both.

In another embodiment, the consumer's genetic test result is enteredinto the central integration site through systems comprising, forexample, and not by way of limitation, an interactive telephone system,an automatic speech recognition system, questionnaire forms submittedvia facsimile, questionnaire forms manually entered or scanned into thecomputer system, a computer or telephone keyboard, a pointing device, ora combination thereof.

The communication of the status report is achieved through systemscomprising, for example, and not by way of limitation, a printer,e-mail, a facsimile device, a visual display, a speech playback system,telephone, or a combination thereof.

In yet another embodiment, the consumer's clinical tests comprise testsof tissues and/or bodily fluids comprising blood tests, fatty acidtests, urine tests, plasma tests, enzyme tests, DNA tests, orcytogenetics tests, among others.

In another aspect, the invention provides an interactive computerizedmethod of linking consumers and nutritional pharmacologists offeringconsumers personalized nutritional information through a central networksite, the method comprising: a) providing a central integration sitethrough which the nutritional pharmacologists and the consumerscommunicate with each other, the central integration site comprising astorage medium, b) storing a first database for maintaining biochemicalmarker data information for at least one biochemical marker in thestorage medium; c) storing a second database for maintaining nutritionaldata for at least one nutrient in the storage medium, the nutritionaldata comprising a record indicating association and effects of at leastone nutrient with at least one biochemical marker; d) receiving theconsumer's clinical test result from the central integration site; e)generating the consumer's biochemical marker level set by comparing theconsumer's clinical test result and the biochemical marker datainformation of the first database; f) comparing the consumer'sbiochemical marker level set with the nutritional data stored in thesecond database; g) generating a status report indicating the consumer'spersonalized nutritional information; and h) communicating the statusreport obtained in step (g) to the consumer.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for establishing andoperating an interactive computer network linking consumers andnutritional pharmacologists through a central integration site, themethod comprising the steps: a) building a central integration site towhich consumers and nutritional pharmacologists connect electronicallyto exchange nutritional information, the central integration sitecomprising a storage medium containing two or more databases that storemedical research data on association and effects of biochemical markersand nutrients; b) establishing commercial relationships through thecentral integration site between the consumers and the nutritionalpharmacologists; c) linking the consumers to a plurality of services andproducts available through a user interface to the central integrationsite; d) establishing means to receive the consumer's clinical testresult from the central integration site; e) generating a status reportindicating the consumer's personalized nutritional information; and f)establishing means to communicate the status report obtained in step (e)to the consumer.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides for a computer programproduct comprising a computer useable medium having program logic storedthereon, wherein the program logic comprises a plurality of machinereadable codes to enable the computer network of the invention to linkconsumer and non-consumer members offering products, information andservices through a central network site, wherein the plurality ofmachine readable codes enables the central network site to collect andstore the offered information, enables the central network site tomanage content, organization and presentation of the offeredinformation, maintain network interfaces, recruit network members,and/or fulfill requests for the information or services offered throughthe central network site.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows the basic structure of an exemplary network according tothe invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of data flow within an exemplary network.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of network operation when accessed by a consumerremote member.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of network operation when accessed by anon-consumer remote member.

FIG. 5 is a schematic of an exemplary network.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating components and topography of anexemplary computerized electronic network.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating the basic formulation of software ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are graphs illustrating two methods in which high, lowand normal levels of a biochemical marker are determined in conjunctionwith the present invention. FIG. 8A represents a symmetrical bell shapedcurve. FIG. 8B represents an asymmetrical curve.

FIGS. 9A-9D are examples of basic status reports generated by thepresent invention. FIGS. 9A-9B provide a listing of fatty acidbiochemical markers detected by a blood chemistry test. FIGS. 9C and 9Dprovide a listing of the non-fatty acid biochemical markers detected bythe blood chemistry test. The acronym “DMA” stands for dimethylacetyl.The code following a listed fatty acid defines the number of carbonatoms in the acid and the number and location of any double bonds. Forexample, “Adrenic C22:4. Omega 6” denotes adrenic acid, havingtwenty-two carbon atoms with four double bonds, the first of which islocated at the sixth carbon atom from the omega or tail end of thecarbon chain.

FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating another manner in which high, low andnormal levels of a biochemical marker are determined in conjunction withthe present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the incorporation of known drug effectdata with the status level of a biochemical marker, to identify drugswith high status report incidence.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the utilization of known effects ofnutrients on biochemical markers.

V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions

As used herein “biochemical markers” are agents including moleculesand/or compounds that are expressed, or formed, or otherwise present inthe body, cells, enzymes, organic and inorganic compounds, minerals,nucleic acid molecules, amino acid molecules, peptide molecules,analytes, and disease indicators, or a combination thereof.

As used herein “nutritional pharmacologists” are health care providersand nutritionists that possess knowledge, education and experience inthe field of nutrition and pharmacology. Nutritional pharmacologistswithin the scope of the invention also include nutritionalpharmacogeneticists that apply the knowledge of nutrition to diseasesand disorders caused by genetical abnormalities.

As used herein “peptide molecules” refer to an oligopeptide, peptide,polypeptide, or protein sequence, or a fragment of any of these, and tonaturally occurring, allelic variants, or mutated forms thereof.

As used herein “small molecules” include, but are not limited to,carbohydrates, carbohydratemimetics, peptidomimetics, organic orinorganic compounds (i.e, including heteroorganic and organometalliccompounds) having a molecular weight less than about 10,000 grams orless per mole and salts, esters, and other pharmaceutically acceptableforms of such compounds.

As used herein “network participant” means any entity, including thecentral integration site, which engages in the access, storage orexchange of information on the network.

As used herein, “remote member” means any network participant other thanthe central integration site. A remote member is either a “consumerremote member” (CRM) or a “non-consumer remote member” (NRM).

The present invention provides a network and methods for establishingand operating the network. The network of the invention links consumers,nutritional pharmacologists, and other interested parties around acentral integration site (CIS). The CIS is the host of the network intowhich individualized information flows, stored and shared with thenutritional pharmacologists and individual consumers. The network thusfacilitates the continuous collection, storage and exchange ofinformation regarding nutritional products, drugs, biochemical markers,and provides each participant with access to an up-to-date, nutritionalstatus reports and a wide pool of knowledge and expertise that can bemanipulated to provide a variety of services.

The network of the invention provides status reports, through the use ofa software to bridge the knowledge gap between applied nutritionalresearch, classical medicine, and patients interested in nutrition as acomponent of their healthcare. In a preferred embodiment, the inventionuses a software program designated “BIOCELL™” as described in U.S. Pat.Nos. 6,063,026 and 6,277,070, each of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety. BIOCELL™ links clinical test results to thelatest medical and biochemical research from over 300 medical books andpeer-reviewed scientific publications to specifically identifyindividualized nutrient deficiencies and imbalances, to uniquelyidentify drugs that would be contra-indicted for the individual, and todetermine an individual's specific nutritional profile and/or druginteraction.

The network of the invention receives and analyzes the informationgenerated from an individual's clinical test results and prepares anindividualized, user-friendly status report that can be used toaccurately diagnose and/or develop treatment programs and recommenddietary changes and supplement programs. Consumer's clinical testresults are obtained through a variety of clinical tests, including forexample, blood testing, or testing other bodily fluids and/or tissuesincluding serum and urine test. Blood tests are performed by assays suchas, for example, electrolyte panel, platelet aggregation,antistreptolysin O Test, enzyme test, sedimentation rate, arterial bloodgases determination, glucose determination test, serum myoglobin test,CBC (complete blood count), glycohemoglobin test, thyroid test,cholesterol test, total serum protein measurement, coagulation test,plasma ammonia test, waste product test, C reactive protein test, fattyacid red cell membrane test, or a combination thereof.

The network of the invention can be implemented in various formsincluding, but not limited to, a closed intranet having restrictedaccess and resources, or an entry-on-demand network in which the membersaccess the CIS directly via a communications line, such as a telephonelink or a wireless link. Preferably, the present invention isimplemented on the Internet. On the Internet, the CIS is addressed at aparticular Universal Resource Locator (URL) address. Networkparticipants may access the CIS and enter the network by addressingtheir Internet browsers to the URL of the CIS.

There are two principle types of network participants: consumer remotemembers (CRMs) and non-consumer remote members (NRMs) “remote” meaningthat they are remote from the CIS. CRMs include, for example, a healthyconsumer, a symptomatic patient, an asymptomatic patient, individualswho have recently obtained a clinical test result, and individualsseeking knowledge about their personal biochemical and nutritionalinteraction, among others. NRMs include nutritional pharmacologists,including nutritional pharmacogeneticists, administrators and networkservice providers, among others.

In one aspect of the invention, one or more sites for NRMs are designedand hosted by the CIS operator, although NRMs may take an active role inplacing content on the site for a CRM to find and use. NRMs, such asnutritional pharmacologists whose advice, product recommendations orstatus reports are solicited by the CRMs, are accessible through a linkfrom the CIS directly to a site provided for the NRMs. NRMs provideinformation to the CIS, and by extension to CRMs. CRMs can enter thenetwork and access various consumer services or information from theCIS, visit the NRMs through the CIS, and inquire of NRMs forinformational and/or transactional services.

Thus, the network of the present invention serves diverse purposes forits two major member types. For the consumer member, the network is asource of product information and related nutritional status reportservices. For the non-consumer member, the network is a source ofconsumers, a pathway to interact with the customers even when thecustomers are not present in a physical office, and a source of valuableinformation about the consumer's biochemical characteristics and healthissues. Specific features of the network services provided to members ofthe network are presented in the detailed description below.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment in which four CRMs and three NRMs are usingthe network. The network shown in FIG. 1 is simplified for ease ofillustration, and it is understood that the networks of the presentinvention are in no way limited to the number of remote members shown inFIG. 1.

The CIS coordinates the collection, and subsequent exchange ofinformation among the remote members of the network. The CIS thuscomprises the operational elements (e.g., computers, central databases,service processors, central integration sites (CPUs), administrativepersonnel) necessary to coordinate and administer all activities of thenetwork. The size and complexity of the CIS is directly related to thenumber of remote members served, or expected to be served, by thenetwork. One of ordinary skill in the art is well aware of theoperational elements required to administer a network of givencomplexity. Preferably, operation and maintenance of a CIS is overseenby one or more network administrators.

Networks are established by recruiting consumers, for example, bysoliciting for network membership. Recruitment also includes theregistering a consumer with a service provider, for example, byrequesting and recording a consumer's name, e-mail address or otherunique identifier and providing a new consumer account application.Typically, network membership is conditioned upon the submission ofinformation to the network. For consumer network participants, thiscondition may be fulfilled by providing a unique identifier uponregistration. The network sponsors (typically those who administer thenetwork) may offer incentives or consideration for network membershipover and above the benefits of network participation. For example, aconsumer may be offered money and/or services (such as the free creationand maintenance of a network interface) as inducement to join thenetwork. Once the consumer account is established, the consumer maystart using the network.

According to one embodiment, a consultation for a consumer in possessionof a clinical test result seeking nutritional pharmacological servicestypically begins with a telephone call or an E-mail to a NRM. Theconsumer is then asked to provide the clinical test results. The NRM mayadditionally ask the consumer specific questions related to theconsumer's general health, genetic background, physiological and/orbiochemical characteristics. Voice recognition and interactive voiceresponse technology allow consumers to respond to multiple choicequestions either by speaking directly into the telephone or by using thetouch tone pad of their telephone, or key pad of their computers.

Easy access to the information in the network is also made possible by anatural user interface. An interface can be any system or device whichallows interaction and information exchange between a remote member andthe CIS. For example, domestic and international mail, telephone,telecopier, facsimile, and private and public computerized electronicnetworks. Preferred interfaces comprise private and public computerizedelectronic networks, such as, for example, the Internet, the wirelessweb, open networks where the user simply dials in, and dedicatedintranets comprising remote users and a central server/data repository.A convenient and most preferred interface is the Internet.

FIG. 2 shows the data flow in an exemplary network comprising a CIS, oneCRM and two NRMs. The network shown in FIG. 2 is simplified for ease ofillustration, and it is understood that data flow in more complexnetworks is analogous to the data flow depicted in FIG. 2. To access thenetwork, remote members interact and exchange information with the CISthrough an interface.

In one embodiment, a consumer is provided with a computer-drivendialogue that consists of simple yes/no and multiple choice questions.The questions are very simply worded yet skillfully designed to obtainclinically important information from the consumer. The NRM collectsinformation about the consumer's clinical test results and stores theinformation through the CIS. This information can be updated from timeto time by the consumer. The CIS thus becomes an information repositorythat may become a source database for preparation and dissemination ofindividualized nutritional information and status reports to theconsumer.

Access to the network preferably occurs through a central networkwebsite. The central network website allows access to network remotemembers, either through links to remote member web pages, or by allowingdirect communication between remote members (for example, by e-mail). Itis understood that the networks of the present invention can be accessedby means other than the Internet. For ease of illustration, however,embodiments of the invention will be hereinafter described as beingaccessible via the Internet.

Referring to FIG. 2, the CRM accesses the network via a CRM interface,for example by typing in the uniform resource locator (URL) for thecentral network website maintained by the CIS. Typically, networkaccesses by a CRM are discreet operations, that is, the CRM accesses thenetwork for finite defined periods of time. CRMs generally will notmaintain a permanent connection to the network.

Upon access to the network by a CRM, the network displays certaininformation, for example, general product information related to healthcare and nutrition, product reviews and recommendations, lists ofavailable services, or any other information chosen by the networkadministrator for display. Because this information is presented to theCRM upon network access without being specifically requested, thisinformation is termed “unsolicited information.” The unsolicitedinformation is derived from the central database of the CIS, which is arepository of all information possessed by the network, includinginformation provided and/or collected by remote members.

In addition to reviewing the unsolicited information, the CRM can alsorequest a network service. Network service requests are input throughthe CRM interface, and are submitted to the network service processor.The service processor categorizes the request and executes theappropriate service procedure. The end-result of an executed service iscalled “service output.” Network services may comprise bothinformational and transactional services. If the requested service isinformational (e.g., request to locate a certain product or request toview a database), the service processor accesses the CIS centraldatabase for the desired information and forwards the informationthrough the service output to the CRM. If the requested service istransactional (e.g., request for a status report on the basis of theconsumer's personal clinical test results) the service processorperforms the necessary actions to effect the desired transaction anddisplays the result or informs the CRM that the transaction has beencompleted.

In further reference to FIG. 2, the NRM collects information relating toa consumer's clinical test results, or general nutritional informationrequest through the network. The NRM accesses the network through anon-consumer remote interface, for example by connecting to the centralnetwork website via the Internet, and inputs this information to the CIScentral database. The CIS organizes and stores this information in thecentral database. Information submission by the NRM can be on a regularbasis (e.g., regular submission of a consumer's individualized statusreport at defined intervals).

FIG. 3 shows a flow chart of network operation by a CRM. Referring tothe figure, the network allows access by a CRM. The network thendisplays unsolicited information to the CRM. The CRM may either view theunsolicited information and end the network session, or request aconsumer service from the network. If a consumer service is requested,the network queries the CRM for any additional information necessary toprocess the request. The service processor then receives any additionalinformation input from the CRM and categorizes the request into aninformational service or a transactional service. If an informationalservice is requested, the service processor searches central databaseand/or queries other remote members for the desired information. Forexample, if the consumer asks the network to locate a product, theservice processor will query the CRM for product specifics (e.g.,product name, catalog number, or the like). If a transactional serviceis requested, the service processor executes the desired transaction.The service processor then provides the service output to the CRM. TheCRM may then terminate the network session or request another service.

Information may flow from the CIS to the NRM upon request of the NRM. Asused herein, a “request” for information by the NRM includes bothdiscreet requests and standing requests for automatic updates. Forexample, a discreet request may consist of a query for an update on themetabolic pharmacology of certain biochemical markers, productavailability for the purpose of enhancing inventory or obtaining aspecial item. An example of a standing request for an automatic updateis a request that the CIS periodically send NRMs clinical test results,and scientific updates on certain drug/drug or drug/food interactions.Such requests and returns are analogous to the informational andtransactional services provided to CRMs via the service processor.

FIG. 4 shows a flow chart of the network operation by a NRM. Informationis collected at the NRM. The information relates to, for example,medical research updates on certain biochemical markers, nutrients,and/or drugs, for updating one or more databases. The CIS then receivesthe information by either automatic or direct submission. The CISorganizes and stores the information submitted by the NRM in the centraldatabase. The CIS provides information from the central database to theNRM upon request.

The development of on-line computerized electronic networks greatlyfacilitates the construction, maintenance and operation of the presentnetworks. However, it is understood that the present networks andmethods are not limited to computerized electronic networks. Networks ofthe present invention can be created and maintained through any systemof information exchange and storage.

An exemplary network is shown in FIG. 5. It is understood, however, thatthe present networks are not limited to the number of remote members orstructure of the network in FIG. 5. With reference to FIG. 5, thenetwork comprises a central integration site (CIS) 1 connected to remoteconsumer members 2, 3, 4, and 5 which are separate consumers inphysically different locations and remote member non-consumer members 6,and 7. The CIS 1 comprises an information storage media 9 for storingdatabases and storing information received from the network members bythe CIS. Any system for the storage of information can be used. Usefulinformation storage media include, for example, printed or writtenmatter and computer readable media. Computer readable media include, forexample, paper storage media (e.g., punch cards, punch tape and thelike), magnetic storage media (e.g., computer disc including “floppy”discs or diskettes, magnetic tape and the like) and light-basedelectronic storage media (e.g., compact disc, digital video disc, andthe like). The CIS can employ one or more information storage mediawhich can be of the same or different type. Preferred informationstorage media comprise computer readable media.

The information storage media or information repositories containdiscrete types of information that can be organized in any manner deemeduseful by NRMs. The organization and content of the storage media canalso be changed at any time based on the needs of the network or networkparticipants. The Information storage media 9 preferably contains two ormore databases. In one embodiment, the information storage mediacontains two databases. The first database stores biochemical markerdata information for a plurality of biochemical markers in the storagemedium. In one embodiment, each item of biochemical marker data includesa biochemical marker low value, high value, and a target value. Thetarget value includes a mode value, mean value, and a weighted averagevalue. These values are obtained through statistical analysis ofbiochemical markers values obtained from testing a human test group.

The second database stores nutrient information for a plurality ofnutrients in the storage medium. Each nutrient record includes a set ofbiochemical markers associated with the particular nutrient and theeffect that the particular nutrient has on the associated biochemicalmarker.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, CIS 1 further comprises serviceprocessor 10 to provide consumer services to CRMs. A service processorcomprises any operational element by which the network can provide arequested service, including administrative personnel, printed indicesor catalogs and electronic communications devices such as telephones orfaxes, and computers. Preferred service processors comprise a computerwith a central integration site and computer program product comprisinga computer useable medium having program logic stored thereon, whereinthe program logic enables the computer to perform a desired consumerservice. The consumer services provided are related to the informationcollected by the network.

The remote members 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 each comprise collecting means11 for collecting information from the remote members. The collectingmeans typically resides with the remote member and comprises means thatcan be used to collect and store information, for example a writteninstrument such as a questionnaire, a device that tracks, tabulatesand/or manipulates data, an electronic device that records information,e.g., a magnetic or light-based media recorder, a scanner (includingmagnetic scanners as for a credit card or customer account card, andlight-based scanners for reading product codes), an optical characterreader, a computer, or a point-of-sale system, or a combination thereof.A remote member can employ one or more collecting means, which means canbe of the same or different types.

The network further comprises exchange means 12 through which remotemembers interact with the network and exchange information with the CIS.As described above, the interface comprises any means for interactingwith the CIS, but preferably comprises a computerized electronic networksuch as the Internet.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for the creation andmaintenance of CRM personal databases, in which CRM personal informationis collected by a remote member and stored for subsequent access by theCRM, NRMs or both. The information in a CRM personal database can bestored by the remote member, by the CIS, or both. Personal consumerdatabases may include past and/or present medical history, clinical testresults, and/or status reports, among others. The network protects andsecures all databases of the invention, and in particular personalconsumer's databases against unauthorized access.

The network of the invention provides variety of services including, forexample, administrative services, receiving consumer's clinical data,generating consumer's individualized status report, creation andmaintenance of CRM personal databases, requesting specific product orinformation, periodic exchange of information relating to remotemembers, e.g., consumer's clinical information, interaction between theconsumer and nutritional pharmacologists, interaction between theconsumer and other employees and management of NRMs includingadministrators of the network, and with other consumers. Suchinteraction can include, for example, the creation or maintenance ofconsumer groups (e.g., general interest groups, product use groups andproduct test groups), message posting services (e.g., “chat rooms” orbulletin boards), and direct consumer-to-consumer communication (e.g.,e-mail).

Additionally, the network of the invention provides services related toremote purchase and/or sale of nutritional products including, ELYTELIQUID MINERAL™, ELYT BALANCED ELECTROLYTES™, ELYTE SPORT™, DETOXX BOX™,BODY BIO BALANCE™, among others. Product recommendations also includerecommendations for purchasing similar or related products based on theconsumer's medical history, clinical test results, and stated taste orsmell likes/dislikes.

Administrative functions of the network include, for example, collectingand storing network information, managing the content, organization andpresentation of information on the network, maintaining networkinterfaces, recruiting network members and fulfilling requests forinformation or network services. Administrative functions can beperformed by the CIS, NRMs and/or CRMs.

The components and topology useful in the computerized electronicnetworks of the invention are illustrated in FIG. 6. It is understood,however, that computerized electronic networks of the present inventionare not necessarily limited to the topology and components discussedbelow.

With reference to FIG. 6, the computerized electronic network comprisesa central integration site (CIS) 25 connected to remote member 26 whichis a nutritional pharmacologist, and remote member 27, which is anindividual consumer.

CIS 25 comprises at least one computer 28 including at least a centralintegration site (CIS) 29 and at least one storage medium 30. Thestorage medium 30 may be, for example, a hard disk drive or a highdensity storage drive with storage media, such as a ZIP drive. Largersystems will use high volume, fast access storage devices. Computer 28also includes at least one input device 31, (e.g., keyboard, mouse,devices for receiving electromagnetic energy such as an antenna or dish,fax/modem, or disk drive) and at least one output device 32, such as amonitor, printer or disk drive. Input device 31 and output device 32 cancomprise the same device. Computer 28 acts as the network server forcoordinating the input, storage and exchange of information fromcomputers and other electronic devices located with the remote networkmembers. Computer 28 may be connected to peripheral devices 33, such asprinters, scanners or such other devices as are necessary foradministering the network. CIS 25 further comprises at least two andpreferably three or more databases stored on storage medium 30, whichdatabases include information from remote members 26 and 27, biochemicalmarker database, nutrient database, and drug/drug interaction database,among others.

The computers and other electronic components of CIS 25 are preferablyinternally connected by data transfer media 34, for example cable media(e.g., wire or fiber-optic cable) or wireless media, for example devicesthat transmit and receive electromagnetic energy (e.g., infrared light,radio frequency, or microwave transmitters/receivers).

Remote member 26 (the nutritional pharmacologist) employs at least onecomputer 35 including at least a central integration site (CIS) 36 andat least one storage medium 37. The storage medium 37 may be, forexample, a hard disk or a high density storage drive with storage media,such as a ZIP drive. Computer 35 also includes at least one input device38, (e.g., keyboard, mouse, devices for receiving electromagnetic energysuch as an antenna or dish, fax/modem, or disk drive) and at least oneoutput device 39, for example a monitor, printer or disk drive. Inputdevice 38 and output device 39 can comprise the same device. Remotemember 26 further employs a data collecting device 40, which is anelectronic device that records information, e.g., a magnetic orlight-based media recorder, a scanner (including magnetic strip scannersas for a credit card or customer account card, and light-based scannersfor reading product codes), an optical character reader, a computer, ora point-of-sale (POS) system. Computer 35 can be integral with datacollection device 40, especially where it comprises a POS system.

Typical POS systems may include the following components: computers,cash registers/cash drawers, bar code readers/scanners, magnetic card orstrip readers, pole displays, receipt printers, electronic scales,modems, keyboards (including keyboards with integrated magneticstrip/card readers and barcode scanner ports), and hand held datacollectors (e.g., number pads for inputting credit or debit cardpersonal identification numbers), among others. A POS system may also bemodified to enable exchange information with the network. One ofordinary skill in the art is capable of modifying a POS system toexchange information with the network.

Typical POS systems can perform multiple levels of informationcollection, tracking and storage based on the information directly inputby the remote member and information generated through customerpurchases. The information collected by the POS system is input to thenetwork, preferably by exchange with the network CIS and it is sharedwith the network either by direct submission or automatic exchange byremote member 26 with CIS 25. Other information can be input to thenetwork by the remote member 26 through the POS system or othercollecting means.

Remote member 26 further employs interface 41 which allows remote member26 to interact with CIS 25 and perceive network information. Interface41 preferably comprises an Internet connection which allows access tothe CIS.

Remote member 27 (the individual consumer) employs data collectiondevice 42, which is an electronic device that records information, e.g.,an optical character reader or a computer. It is preferred that datacollection device 42 comprises a computer. For example, data collectiondevice 42 can comprise an individual consumer's home computer throughwhich the consumer inputs information to the network.

Remote member 27 further employs interface 43 which allows remote member27 to interact with CIS 25 and perceive network information. Interface43 preferably comprises an Internet connection through which remotemember 27 can access the central network website maintained by the CIS.Interface 43 may be located with remote member 27 (e.g., the consumer'shome computer) or may be located elsewhere and be accessible to remotemember 27. Interface 43 may also be located within remote member 26(nutritional pharmacologist), and may be the same or different asinterface 41. For example, remote member 26 may have an in-store,stand-alone interface for customers to access the network. Such astand-alone interface can comprise a computer. Preferably, an in-storestand-alone interface comprises a defined area (e.g., a laboratory, oroffice) containing at least one computer configured for network access.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart setting forth the various steps in the formationand use of the software of the invention in the nutritional diagnosticand/or prevention programs. In step 101, a first database is created andstored in a storage medium. The first database maintains data for aplurality of biochemical markers determined from a statistical analysisof the biochemical marker values obtained through testing a human testgroup. Each of the subjects of the test group is screened for aparticular set of biochemical markers. For example, each subject isscreened for a set of fatty acid biochemical markers and a set ofnon-fatty acid biochemical markers. A value representative of the amountof each of the fatty acid biochemical markers and the non-fatty acidbiochemical markers is determined and becomes part of the statisticalanalysis. The fatty acid biochemical marker values may be obtained bydrawing a blood sample from each subject and conducting a conventionalfatty acid red cell membrane test known to those skilled in the art. Thenon-fatty acid biochemical marker values may be obtained by drawinganother blood sample from each subject and conducting a conventionalblood chemistry test known to those skilled in the art on the sample.

Table 1 is representative of the first database.

TABLE 1 BIOCHEMICAL MARKER LOW VALUE HIGH VALUE MODE VALUE 1 25 150 90 25 26 14 3 8.5 10.8 9.6 4 96 109 103 5 1.9 3.5 2.6 6 3.90 9.0 4.7 7 0 240170 8 3.3 4.5 3.5 9 140 260 190

In one embodiment, the first database includes a low value, a high valueand a biochemical marker target value for each biochemical marker.Biochemical markers have different types of curves representing theirtarget values. A “biochemical marker target value” is a value on afrequency distribution curve, which is considered the healthiest valuefor a consumer and therefore represents the value an individual'sbiochemical marker levels should be driven towards.

In another embodiment, the first database includes a biochemical markerthat is a normal or an abnormal gene. The gene is homozygous orheterozygous genes including normal genes, mutated genes, substitutedgenes, replaced genes, deleted genes, repeated genes, or translocatedgenes, among others.

Referring to FIG. 7, in step 102 a second database is created and storedin the storage medium. The second database maintains data informationregarding a plurality of nutrients. Table 2 is representative of thesecond database.

TABLE 2 LOW NORMAL HIGH Abalone Cholesterol Cholesterol Eosinophils CO₂CO₂ GGT Eosinophils Potassium GGT Sodium Potassium Sodium Acetic AcidCalcium Calcium Sodium Acetyl Carnitine W.B.C Cholesterol TriglyceridesW.B.C. Acorn Squash Calcium Calcium GGT GGT Adenosylcobalamin PhytanicLignoceric C24:0 Pristanic Phytanic Advera Uric Acid B.U.N Protein,Total Nutrients are underlined and bolded.

The second database includes a nutrient record for each of the pluralityof nutrients. Each particular nutrient record also includes a set ofbiochemical markers or expressed gene products upon which the particularnutrient has a supportive effect. By supportive effect, it is meant thatthe nutrient drives a particular biochemical marker or expressed geneproducts towards the normal range. Once the individual's biochemicalmarker or expressed gene products level set has been generated, it canbe compared to the nutrient database. This comparison provides a groupof nutrients that can be prescribed to consumers to drive theirbiochemical marker and/or expressed gene products levels towards thenormal.

Table 2 is an example of a chart indicating recommended nutrients forhigh, low, and normal biochemical marker levels. The database includes aplurality of nutrients, for example, acetic acid. The database indicatesnutrients that are associated with a biochemical marker level and henceallows determination of particular nutrients that are capable ofregulating an out of normal range biochemical marker level towards thenormal range. As shown, acetic acid is suggested for a high and/or anormal calcium level and a high sodium level.

In one embodiment, the present invention also provides methods foridentifying nutrients for an individual whose biochemical marker valuessuggest a minor imbalance. By minor imbalance it is meant that thepercent status values fall between 12.5 and 25 or between −12.5 and −25.To this end, the percent status values may be input to the CIS andcompared to the nutrient database to determine the nutrients that woulddrive the individual's biochemical marker values towards the normalvalue. The percent status value is indicative of a relationship betweenthe individual's biochemical marker values and the test group'sbiochemical marker values. The calculation of the percent status valueis described in more detail below.

Table 3 presents a typical tabulation of some known biochemical markersindicated in a consumer's clinical test results.

TABLE 3 BIOCHEMICAL LOW HIGH TARGET % PRESENCE MARKER RESULT* VALUEVALUE VALUE STATUS LEVEL 1. Alkaline 68 25 150 90 −17 N    Phosphatase2. B.U.N. 9 5 26 14 −21 N 3. Calcium 9.3 8.5 10.8 9.6 −14 N 4. Chloride108 96 109 103 42 H 5. Globulin 2.0 1.9 3.5 2.6 −43 L 6. Uric Acid 6.03.9 9.0 4.7 15 N 7. Lactate 222 0 240 170 37 H    Dehydrodenase 8.Phosphorus 3.3 2.5 4.5 3.5 −10 N 9. Cholesterol 160 140 260 190 −30 L*Indicates the patient's clinical test results.

In reference to FIG. 8A, the plot illustrated in this figure shows astatistical analysis for a particular biochemical marker, cholesterol inthis example. This plot is representative of the value of thebiochemical marker cholesterol obtained from the human test group. Thehorizontal axis indicates the cholesterol value. The vertical axisrepresents the number of individuals in the human test group that had aparticular cholesterol value. In this example, the high value is 260 andthe low value is 140. In a curve having this shape, the mode value isabout 190. This value is used as the target value. The high and lowvalues are determined as two standard deviations of the values generatedfrom the human test group. The mode value is the value that has beenrecorded for the greatest number of people from the human test group.

In reference to FIG. 8B, the plot shows another example of a statisticalanalysis for a biochemical marker. Similar to FIG. 8A, the horizontalaxis in FIG. 8B represents the biochemical marker value and the verticalaxis indicates the number of individuals in the human test group thathad a particular biochemical marker value. Through the generation ofthese plots and the development of the frequency distribution, it hasbeen discovered that some biochemical markers present curves in whichthe mode is not the healthiest point. In these types of curves, theweighted average value is considered the healthiest point and thereforeused as the target value.

Referring again to FIG. 7, the particular individual's biochemicalmarker values are input to the CIS, in step 103. The collected data isformulated as a basic status report indicating the consumer'sbiochemical marker values. Examples of such basic status reports areillustrated in FIGS. 9A-9D.

FIGS. 9A-9D are examples of a basic status report generated according tothe present invention. FIGS. 9A and 9B provide a listing of fatty acidbiochemical markers detected by a blood test such as fatty acid red cellmembrane test. FIGS. 9C and 9D provide a listing of the non-fatty acidbiochemical markers detected by a blood test such as fatty acid cellmembrane test. The first database maintains a biochemical marker recordfor each of these biochemical markers.

The network system of the invention generates a status report thatindicates specific nutritional needs of the consumer. The network of theinvention studies and analyses a consumer's current clinical testresults, for example, blood chemistry results or genetic testingresults, against the vast body of medical knowledge stored in thedatabases of the invention in a detailed and informative fashion. Thedisease pattern matching system of the invention enables an asymptomaticconsumer to seek medical assistance for prevention and/or treatment of adiseases or disorders which were not previously identified oridentifiable through classical clinical blood tests or genetic testingresults.

Clinical chemists have reported that disease entities often have bloodchemistry or genetic patterns, some unique, some similar in definitionto others. Using the world's body of medical research data, diseasepatterns are identified through the use of the % status concept, asexplained in more detail below.

In one embodiment, the nutritional pharmacology section of the statusreport generated by the network system of the invention indicatesdisturbances in the consumer's blood chemistry or genetic mutations thatmay be responsive to supplementation of electrolytes, minerals,coenzymes, fatty acids, vitamins, amino acids, herbs, lipids, proteins,carbohydrates, or a combination thereof to rectify a consumer'sbiochemical imbalances or deficiencies.

Nutritional pharmacology is one of the fastest growing areas of medicineand the databases of the invention are continually updated as newmedical research comes to light. The status report suggests appropriatenutrient intervention as digestive support, nutritional support,nutrients recommended, and/or nutrients to avoid. Nutrients areprioritized with a star ranging from ½ star (less needed) to 4 stars(more needed) ratings. The greater the number of stars the strongernutritional needs.

Different forms of nutrients are also indicated in the status report.The main concept reflected in the status report is the balance ofnutrients. For example, for magnesium, magnesium glycinate, magnesiumcarbonate, or magnesium citrate may be indicated in the status report,depending on the consumer's specific nutritional needs.

In one embodiment, the consumer is provided with a blood chemistrystatus report that provides the information needed to quickly andeffectively determine biochemical imbalances, unique nutritional needs,drug interactions and appropriate nutrient choices for individuals. Thenetwork system of the invention uses the results from a standard bloodchemistry test and generates a comprehensive blood chemistry report thatis diagnostic with prescriptive nutritional intervention.

In another embodiment, the consumer is provided with a red cell fattyacid status report that provides consumers with an analysis of theirfatty acid metabolism that leads to a more accurate diagnosis andpositive treatment outcome. Lipids evolve into hormones, the bilipidlayer of every cell in the body, prostaglandins, immune components, andmyelin. There is virtually no system of the body that does not requirespecific fatty acid substrates and coenzymes to maintain health andrepair of bodily tissues. Insight into the body's cell membrane systemis possible through examination of red cell fatty acid profilingprovided by the network of the invention, which analysis can bereflective of long-term insufficiencies and imbalances in fatty acidmetabolism.

Through lipid research and analysis of data stored in the database, theconsumer may obtain an accurate measure of disturbances in his/her fattyacid metabolism which has been previously linked to a myriad of physicaland mental disorders. Exploration of fatty acid metabolism leads theclinician to a wide realm of metabolic strategies to influence thehealth of the patient.

The status report of the invention also illustrates the total statusdeviation, which is the mathematical average of all the biochemicalmarkers, and the total status skew, which illustrates the averagedirection of the changes, negative or positive. When the total statusdeviation is over 25% it signifies that the average of all the artifactsin the test is deviated more than 25%, which is significant and warrantsattention. Over 50% deviation signifies a critical situation that shouldbe viewed with some sense of urgency.

The status report of the invention also contains a bio system analysisportion that breaks the results into subset panels of different systemsin the body. Pictorial and descriptive data is given as indicated forassessment of the following: cardiovascular disease, endocrineimbalance, cognitive impairment, immune dysfunction, gastrointestinaldifficulties, anxiety, chronic fatigue, MS, eating disorders,depression, epilepsy, PMS, skin disorders, neurological impairment,developmental delay, headache, convulsion and seizure, chest pain,dizziness, irregular heartbeat, fainting, shortness of breath, chestinjury, cough, high blood pressure, hyperventilation, numbness,wheezing, inhalation injury, or traumatic brain injury, or a combinationthereof, among other diseases.

In step 4 shown in FIG. 7, a consumer's biochemical marker level setincluding a biochemical marker level for each biochemical marker valuein the consumer's clinical test result is generated using theinformation maintained in the first database.

As discussed above, the biochemical marker level set is generated byfirst generating a percent status set. The percent status set includes avalue for each biochemical marker in the consumer's clinical testresults. The percent status value is indicative of a relationshipbetween the individual's biochemical marker values and the test group'sbiochemical marker values. The percent status is calculated using one ofthe following equations.

If the individual's biochemical marker value is greater than thebiochemical marker target value, then % status equals 50 (patientclinical test result biochemical marker value-biochemical marker targetvalue)/(biochemical marker high value-biochemical marker target value).If the individual's biochemical marker value is less than thebiochemical marker target value, then % status equals 50 (patientclinical test result biochemical marker value-biochemical marker targetvalue)/(biochemical marker target value-biochemical marker low value).Using the “% status”, nutritional pharmacologists may review each subsetor body system in view of a consumer's specific biochemistry.

Table 4 presents the results of calculating the percent status for eachof the biochemical marker values of the patient's clinical test resultpresented in Table 3. The percent status results are also presented inTable 3 for easy comparison with the other parameters.

TABLE 4 BIOCHEMICAL MARKER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 % STATUS −17 −21 −14 42 4315 37 −10 −30 PRESENCE N N N H L N H N L LEVEL “L” represents a lowlevel presence, “N” represents a normal level presence and “H”represents a high level presence of the various biochemical markers.

By determining the percent status as a function of the biochemicalmarker target value and changing the denominator of the above referencedequations based upon the relationship of the individual's biochemicalmarker value and the target value, the percent status provides a veryaccurate and true picture of the individual's biochemical marker levelrelative to the healthiest value for the biochemical marker, asindicated by the target value.

The percent status as a function of a biochemical marker is usedadvantageously in situations where the results of the human test groupdo not present a symmetrical bell curve wherein the mean value and thetarget value are the same. If the human test group does not present asymmetrical bell curve, then the mean value will not equal the modevalue. In this instance, the mean value will merely represent amathematical average between the low value and the high value. Thisvalue will not be representative of the healthiest human value for theparticular biochemical marker.

Once the percent status set is generated, the percent status result foreach biochemical marker is compared to a pre-selected high status valueand a pre-selected low status value. This comparison forms the basis fordetermining the individual's biochemical marker level for eachparticular biochemical marker relative to the test group.

By generating the consumer's biochemical marker level set based upon apercent status value that is a function of the target value for theparticular biochemical marker, a nutritional pharmacologist will bebetter able to adjust the individual's biochemical marker levels towardsa normal, optimal human condition.

In step 5, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the consumer's biochemical markerlevel set is compared to each of the nutrient records of the seconddatabase. This comparison provides the basis for determining anycorrelation between the individual's biochemical marker values andnutrients maintained in the second database.

In step 6, as illustrated in FIG. 7, a determination is made, based upona comparison made at step 5 between the consumer's biochemical markerlevel set and each of nutrient records of the second database. Thecorrelation between the consumer's biochemical marker level set and thenutrient records indicates whether an individual benefits from aparticular nutrient. The comparison indicates a group of nutrients thathave supportive effects for the individual having certain biochemicalmarker levels by counting the number of “pattern matches” that existbetween the biochemical marker levels (L, N or H) of the consumer'sbiochemical marker level set and the biochemical marker levels for thevarious biochemical markers associated with the particular nutrient ofthe second database.

TABLE 5 Nutrient Indicator # BIOCHEMICAL NUTRIENT MARKERS # MATCHES %MATCH 1 5 0 0% 2 6 4 67% 3 5 2 40%

Table 5 presents an example of the results of a comparison between thedegree of association between a biochemical marker and a particularnutrient. The higher percent of match, the higher level of associationbetween the biochemical marker and the nutrient. Accordingly, the methodof the present invention can determine the likelihood that a nutrientwill have a supportive effect on a particular biochemical marker.

In another embodiment of the present invention, generating theconsumer's biochemical marker level set is accomplished by generating anormal limit set. The normal limit set comprises biochemical markervalues that demarcate the boundaries for normal levels of the particularbiochemical marker. The normal limit set includes a high normal limitand a low normal limit.

A frequency distribution curve obtained from the human test group isillustrated in FIG. 10. The curve includes a lower limit, labeled “lowpoint” and an upper limit, labeled “high point.” The low point and thehigh point are determined as two standard deviations of the results ofthe human test group. The method generates a normal limit value set foreach of the plurality of biochemical markers maintained in the firstdatabase using the data information maintained in each record of thefirst database. The normal limit value set includes a high normal limitvalue (HNL) and a low normal limit (LNL) value.

The high normal limit value for each biochemical marker is determinedusing the equation: HNL=biochemical marker target value+[normal percentrange (biochemical marker high value-biochemical marker target value)].The low normal limit value for each biochemical marker is determinedusing the equation: LNL=biochemical marker target value-[normal percentrange (biochemical marker target value-biochemical marker low value)].The normal percent range is a constant between 0 and 1. The normalpercent range is preferably between 0.25 and 0.75. The normal percentrange is more preferably 0.50. For a more detailed description andanalysis of % status see, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,063,026 and 6,277,070, eachof which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Therefore, the basic software system of the invention enables anutritional pharmacologist to input an individual's biochemical markervalues into a computerized system and have the system produce a listingof nutrients that will have a supportive effect on that individual'sbiochemical marker levels based upon the variation between theindividual's biochemical marker values and the biochemical marker valuesof a human test group.

A further feature of the present invention is the generation of a statusreport indicating the known effects of various drugs on biochemicalmarker levels, as illustrated in FIG. 11. In one embodiment, the statusreport generated by the network system of the invention indicates andflags drug interactions and potential problems for the consumer takingthe drug on the basis of their individual clinical test results. Thissection (usually one page) permits a quick scan to see how specificdrugs affect each consumer's biochemistry differently. Through thestatus report generated by the network system of the invention, theconsumer is able to determine which biochemical marker is affected bythe drug, and ascertain whether he or she is at risk of developing adisease or disorder by taking the drug.

The drug interaction analysis of the network of the invention is madepossible by the use of a third database stored on the storage media ofthe central integration site. The third database includes drug recordsthat correlate the effects of known drugs upon the levels of each of thevarious biochemical markers.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, at step 52, the abnormal presence levels,both high (H) and low (L), of the biochemical markers are compared withthe drug effects data. Drugs that negatively interact with biochemicalmarkers are detected.

Table 6 presents known drug effect from medical research data for a fewspecific biochemical markers

TABLE 6 ABNORMAL DRUG NEGATIVELY BIOCHEMICAL PRESENCE AFFECT THE MARKERLEVEL BIOCHEMICAL MARKER Chloride H Acetazolamide, Aspirin, Lithium,Boric Acid Total iron L ACTH, Oxalate, Fluorides Basophils LProcainamide WBC L Aspirin, Busulfan, Mepazine Glucose L Aspirin,Ethanol, Insulin Total Protein L Aspirin, Arginine, Rifampin

An analysis of the data presented in Table 6 shows that the drug aspirinis identified as a drug that can negatively affect four of the sixabnormal presence levels of the biochemical markers set forth therein.For example, when the level of the biochemical marker “chloride” is high(percent status is greater than 25), drugs, such as aspirin, is listedto cause or aggravate this condition. Thus aspirin is a contraindicateddrug for the individual whose clinical test results are provided inTable 6.

Another feature of the network system of the invention is to provide aconsumer's status report that incorporates known positive effects ofvarious drugs on various biochemical markers. As illustrated in FIG. 12,a drug database 60 is created and stored in the storage medium. The drugdatabase includes records that correlate the effects of known drugs thatpositively affect the abnormal presence level of various biochemicalmarkers.

Thus, for each biochemical marker, known drugs are cataloged that cannormalize the level of a particular biochemical marker. The effects ofdrugs on biochemical markers are well known in medical research. Newagents and the corresponding effects thereof on various biochemicalmarkers are developed in medical research on a daily basis. Hence, thedatabases used in the network system of the invention are periodicallyupdated.

In addition to the genetic tests and blood chemistry tests, theinvention also encompass other types of clinical tests, including by wayof example and not limitation, urine tests, ocular tests, protein tests,dermal tests, cancer antigen tests, biopsy tests, orthopedic tests, bonedensity tests, etc. In particular, the clinical tests within the scopeof the invention includes, by way of example and not limitation, testsrelated to pediatrics, eye disorders, skin disorders, headache, mentalhealth, radiology, neurology, allergy, arterial blood gases (ABG),adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), alpha fetoprotein (AFP), alanineaminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkalinephosphatase, alpha fetoprotein, ammonia, amylase, angiography,angioscopy, angiotensin, anion Gap, antiglobulin (direct or indirect),arterial blood gases, aspartate aminotransferase, BUN, bilirubin, bloodurea nitrogen, blood culture, bone biopsy, bone marrow examination,breast biopsy, Bronchoscopy, cancer antigen CA125, carbohydrate antigenCA19-9, complete blood count (CBC), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA),C-reactive protein (CRP), computed tomography (CT), calcitonin, calcium,carbon dioxide total (Tco2), carcinoembryonic antigen, catecholamines,Cardiac, chloride, serum, cold stimulation test, colonoscopy,colposcopy, compatibility test, complement total, complete blood count,computed tomography, cortisol, creatinine, Electroencephalography (EEG),electrocardiogram (EKG), electrophysiologic (EPS), echocardiogram,electrolytes, cholangiopancreatography, enzymes and isoenzymes,erythrocyte sedimentation rate, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, estradiol,estriol, estrogen total, estrogen-progesterone receptor assay, folliclestimulating hormone (FSH), fasting blood glucose, fat fecal, fibrinsplit products, fibrinogen, Free T3, free triiodothyronine, gammaglutamyl transferase (GGT), gastrin, gated blood pool studies, glucagon,glucose, urinary glucose tolerance test, capillary, glycosylatedhemoglobin assay, hemoglobin A1, hepatitis virus tests, herpes virusantigen, fluorescent antibody, insulin, ionized calcium, iron studies,ketons, lactic acid, lactose tolerance test, leukocyte alkalinephosphatase, lipase, lipids, lupus erythematosus test, luteinizinghormone, magnesium, myoglobulin, OB, stool, occult blood, prostatespecific antigen (PSA), prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastintime (PTT), paracentesis, parathyroid hormone, pericardiocentesis,periotoneal fluid analysis, phenylalanine, phenylalanine, phosphorus,plethysmography, potassium, progesterone, prolactin, sickle cell tests,sodium, sputum culture and sensitivity, stress testing, cardiac,thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), testosterone, free thallium testing,thoracentesis, thyroid biopsy, thyrotropin, thyroxine, toxoplasmosisserology, vasopressin plasma, venography, visual acuity tests, vitamin Dactivated, water deprivation test, water-loading test, and white bloodcell differential, among others.

Genetic Tests

In one embodiment, the consumer is provided with a genetic testingstatus report that provides the information needed to quickly andeffectively determine chemical imbalances, unique nutritional needs,drug interactions and appropriate nutrient choices for individuals withgenetic malfunction and/or mutations in one or more genes. The networksystem of the invention uses the results from a standard genetic testresult and generates a comprehensive genetic test report that ispreventive with prescriptive nutritional intervention.

Genetic tests are techniques used to test for genetic disorders andinvolve direct examination of the DNA molecule, chromosomes, or analysisof products of gene expression including biochemical tests for enzymesand other proteins. Some genetic tests require testing the DNA samplefrom a patient for mutated sequences. A DNA sample can be obtained fromany tissues, including blood. In some DNA tests, short pieces of DNA(a.k.a. probes), whose sequences are complementary to the mutatedsequences are designed. These probes seek their complement among thethree billion base pairs of an individual's genome. If the mutatedsequence is present in the patient's genome, the probe will bind to itand flag the mutation. Another type of DNA testing involves comparingthe sequence of DNA bases in a patient's gene to a normal version of thegene.

Genetic tests are used for several reasons including, by way of exampleand not limitation, carrier screening, which involves identifyingasymptomatic individuals who carry one copy of a gene for a disease thatrequires two copies for the disease to be expressed, prenatal diagnostictesting, presymptomatic testing for predicting adult-onset disorderssuch as Huntington's disease, presymptomatic testing for estimating therisk of developing adult-onset cancers and Alzheimer's disease, andconformational diagnosis of a symptomatic individual, among others.Genetic tests are also used to determine the polymorphisms that impactthe bodily response to a drug. Such tests require isolation of DNA fromthe cells of the subject undergoing the test. The DNA is thenmanipulated to match a specific area on a specific chromosome, andcompared to “normal” DNA. In this way, genetic variations can be seenthat may play a role in the over- or under-responsiveness to atherapeutic drug. This testing can also determine an individual'sresistance or sensitivity to the effectiveness of certain drugs used inviral therapy (HIV or hepatitis C drugs, for example).

Currently, more than 1000 genetic tests are available from testinglaboratories. A few tests available in the past few years from clinicalgenetics laboratories are listed below. Test names and a description ofthe diseases or symptoms are in parentheses. Alpha-1-antitrypsindeficiency (AAT; emphysema and liver disease), Amyotrophic lateralsclerosis (ALS: Lou Gehrig's Disease; progressive motor function lossleading to paralysis and death), Alzheimer's disease (APOE; late-onsetvariety of senile dementia), Ataxia telangiectasia (AT; progressivebrain disorder resulting in loss of muscle control and cancers), Gaucherdisease (GD; enlarged liver and spleen, bone degeneration), Inheritedbreast and ovarian cancer (BRCA 1 and 2; early-onset tumors of breastsand ovaries), Hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (CA; early-onsettumors of colon and sometimes other organs), Central Core Disease (CCD;mild to severe muscle weakness), Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT; loss offeeling in ends of limbs), Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH; hormonedeficiency; ambiguous genitalia and male pseudohermaphroditism), Cysticfibrosis (CF; disease of lung and pancreas resulting in thick mucousaccumulations and chronic infections), Duchenne musculardystrophy/Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD; severe to mild muscle wasting,deterioration, weakness), Dystonia (DYT; muscle rigidity, repetitivetwisting movements), Emanuel Syndrome (severe mental retardation,abnormal development of the head, heart and kidney problems), Fanconianemia, group C (FA; anemia, leukemia, skeletal deformities), FactorV-Leiden (FVL; blood-clotting disorder), Fragile X syndrome (FRAX;leading cause of inherited mental retardation), Galactosemia (GALT;metabolic disorder affects ability to metabolize galactose), HemophiliaA and B (HEMA and HEMB; bleeding disorders), Hereditary Hemochromatosis(HFE; excess iron storage disorder), Huntington's disease (HD; usuallymidlife onset; progressive, lethal, degenerative neurological disease),Marfan Syndrome (FBNI; connective tissue disorder; tissues of ligaments,blood vessel walls, cartilage, heart valves and other structuresabnormally weak), Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS; deficiency of enzymesneeded to break down long chain sugars called glycosaminoglycans;corneal clouding, joint stiffness, heart disease, mental retardation),Myotonic dystrophy (MD; progressive muscle weakness; most common form ofadult muscular dystrophy), Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1; multiplebenign nervous system tumors that can be disfiguring; cancers),Phenylketonuria (PKU; progressive mental retardation due to missingenzyme; correctable by diet), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD1, PKD2;cysts in the kidneys and other organs), Adult Polycystic Kidney Disease(APKD; kidney failure and liver disease), Prader Willi/Angelmansyndromes (PW/A; decreased motor skills, cognitive impairment, earlydeath), Sickle cell disease (SS; blood cell disorder; chronic pain andinfections), Spinocerebellar ataxia, type 1 (SCA1; involuntary musclemovements, reflex disorders, explosive speech), Spinal muscular atrophy(SMA; severe, usually lethal progressive muscle-wasting disorder inchildren), Tay-Sachs Disease (TS; fatal neurological disease of earlychildhood; seizures, paralysis), Thalassemias (THAL; anemias—reduced redblood cell levels), Timothy Syndrome (CACNA1C; characterized by severecardiac arrhythmia, webbing of the fingers and toes called syndactyly,autism), among others.

There are several examples of genetic testing as disclosed above. Oneexample of testing for genetic products includes those widely used toscreen newborns for a variety of disorders. For example, newborns aretested for phenylketonuria (PKU), an inherited autosomal recessivemetabolic disorder caused by a variation in a gene that makes a specialenzyme that breaks down phenylalanine, an amino acid. When too much ofthis substance builds up in blood, it can lead to mental retardation ifnot treated early in life with a special, restricted diet. The test usesa blood sample from a baby's heel to look for the presence of extraphenylalanine, rather than looking for the mutated gene itself. Otherexamples include blood tests for congenital hypothyroidism, diagnosed bylow blood levels or absence of thyroid hormone, and congenital adrenalhyperplasia, a genetic disease that causes the hormone cortisol to bedecreased in blood.

Cytogenetics Tests

Cytogenetics relates to the study of the chromosomes and the techniciansor scientists who conduct such studies are cytotechnologists orcytogeneticists. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, 22 pairs of whichare autosomes and one pair is sex chromosomes. A trained cytogeneticistexamines the number, shape and staining pattern of these structuresusing special cytogenetic technologies. In this way, extra chromosomes,missing chromosomes, or rearranged chromosomes can be detected.

Studies of chromosomes begin with the extraction of whole chromosomesfrom the nuclei of cells. These chromosomes are then placed on glassslides, stained with special stains, and examined under a microscope.Sometimes, pictures are taken of the chromosomes on the slides, and thepicture is cut into pieces so the chromosome pairs can be matched. Eachchromosome pair is assigned special number (from 1 to 22, then X and Y)that is based on their staining pattern and size. There are severaldisorders that can be diagnosed by examining a person's wholechromosomes. Down syndrome, in which an individual has an extrachromosome 21, can be determined by cytogenetic studies. When there arethree chromosomes in one group instead of a pair, it is referred to as a“trisomy.” Missing chromosomes can also be detected, as in the case ofTurner's syndrome, in which a female has only a single X chromosome.When there is only one chromosome instead of a pair, it is referred toas a “monosomy.”

Abnormalities in chromosome structure are also observed with cytogeneticstaining techniques. The Fragile X syndrome, the most common inheritedcause of mental retardation, takes its name from the appearance of thestained X chromosome under a microscope. There is a site near the end ofthis chromosome that does not stain, indicating its fragility. The genein the fragile region is important in making a special protein needed bydeveloping brain cells. In some instances, a portion of a chromosomebreaks off and attaches to a different chromosome somewhere in aperson's genome. This phenomenon is referred to as “translocation.” Anexample of a disease caused by translocation is chronic myelogenousleukemia (CML) in which a part of chromosome 9 breaks off and attachesitself to chromosome 22. Another example is Burkitt's lymphoma, in whicha piece of chromosome 8 attaches to chromosome 14. These chromosomaltranslocations cause disease because the broken piece usually attachesto the new chromosome near a special gene that consequently becomesactivated and produces tumor cells. Translocations can sometimes be seenunder the microscope if a special stain is used.

A special technique called “fluorescent in situ hybridization” or FISHcan be used to view changes in chromosomes that result from geneticvariations. A mutated gene segment in a chromosome can be made to “lightup” or fluoresce when it is bound by a special probe. Genetic changes insome cancers can be detected using this method. For instance, FISH isone of the methods used to determine increased expression of the geneHER2/neu. There are many other applications of FISH technology as well,such as chromosome microdeletions, in which a certain part of achromosome is completely missing. In this case, the chromosome segmentwill not fluoresce compared to a normal set of chromosomes.

Genetic Variation And Mutation

Most genetic variations or polymorphisms originate from the process ofmutation. Genetic variations occur sometimes during the process ofsomatic cell division (mitosis). Other genetic variations can occurduring meiosis, the cycle of division for a sperm cell or an ovum. Somevariations are passed along through the generations, adding more andmore changes over the years. Sometimes these mutations lead to disease,other times there is no noticeable effect. Genetic variations can beclassified into different categories: stable genetic variations,unstable genetic variations, silent genetic variations, and other types.Stable genetic variations are caused by specific changes in singlenucleotides. These changes are called single nucleotide polymorphisms orSNPs and can include substitutions, in which one nucleotide is replacedby another, deletions, in which a single nucleotide is lost, andinsertions, in which one or more nucleotides are inserted into 9a gene.If the SNP causes a new amino acid to be made, it is called a “missensemutation.” An example of this is in sickle cell anemia, in which onenucleotide is substituted for another. The genetic variation in the genecauses expression of an abnormal amino acid that leads to the formationof an abnormal protein that causes sickle shape cells that are unable tocarry oxygen.

Unstable genetic variations occur when a nucleotide sequence repeatsmany times along a DNA chain. This phenomena is called a “repeat” and itusually causes no genetic disorders. However, if the number of repeatsincreases, it becomes an “expanded repeat”, which has been found to bethe cause of many genetic disorders. An example of a disease caused byan expanded repeat is Huntington disease, a severe disorder of a part ofthe brain that is marked by dementia, hydrocephalus, and unusualmovements.

Silent genetic variations are those mutations or changes in a gene thatdo not change the expressed products of the gene. These mutations rarelyresult in a disease. Other types of variations occur when an entire geneis duplicated and extra copies of the gene is made, which in turn causeselevated level of the expressed gene products. An example of suchgenetic disorder is seen in a disorder that effects peripheral nervesand is called Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1. In this case, somevariations occur in a special part of the gene that controls DNAtranscription or DNA transcript enzymes. Other genetic variationsinclude a mutation in the gene that expresses a protein that repairsDNA. This variation can result in many types of diseases, includingcolorectal cancer and a skin disease called xeroderma pigmentosum.

Tests For Expressed Gene Products

Many inherited disorders are identified indirectly by examiningabnormalities in the expressed gene products (amino acid or nucleic acidmolecules) that are present in abnormal forms or quantities. Genes codefor the production of proteins and if there is an error in the geneticcode changes can occur in the production, structure and function ofthose proteins. So, rather than detecting the problem in the gene, sometypes of genetic test look for unusual findings related to the pertinentproteins, such as their absence, substituted or replaced forms.

There are a few enzymes that act to metabolize specific drugs, allowingthem to be excreted in urine or by other means. At present, however,there are no testing programs in place that can provide an overallpicture of the specific genetic variations that may cause to beunresponsive or over-responsive to a therapeutic drug.

There have been several reports regarding patients who have demonstratedresistance or violent reactions to certain therapeutic drugs fortreatment or prevention of their disease symptoms on the basis of theirgenetic make up. The study of this phenomenon is called“pharmacogenomics” or “pharmacogenetics.” The practitioners conductingthese studies in an individual are called “pharmacogeneticists” Thereare several reports in literature indicating hypermetabolism orhypometabolism of certain drugs and their relation to geneticpolymorphism and could lead to death or serious injury of the subjectundergoing the treatment. As an example, sensitivity to codeine has abasis in genetic mutation and polymorphism. In some cases, individuals“hypermetabolize” drugs. This occurs when there is a high concentrationof an enzyme that breaks down the drug and as a result the drug ismetabolized too quickly, leading to a lack of response to the drug. Thiscan happen when there are too many copies of the gene expressing theprotein which in turn results in a high concentration of the enzymeproduced. In other cases, the special cell receptor that binds the drugis missing, which is the result of a variation in the gene expressingthe protein that makes the receptor protein. The drug has no affect onthe subject cells or tissues when it can not bind the cell receptors.

The effect of different nutrients on gene expression and enzyme functionin breast and prostate cancer are being investigated. In particular, theeffect of n-3, n-6 essential fatty acids and n-9 fatty acids on geneexpression in cancer and the effect of n-3 essential fatty acids on hostdefense (systemic and gut) in patients with inflammatory bowel diseasehave been investigated. The effect of essential fatty acids and dietarycomponents on cancer growth and the molecular effect of arginine feedingin cancer patients have also been assessed. See, for example, Heys S D,Schofield A C, Wahle K W J. Immunonutrition in clinical practice: whatis the current evidence? Nutr Hosp 2004; 19: 325-331; and NanthakumaranS, Heys S D. Randomised clinical trial of the effects of preoperativeand postoperative oral nutritional supplements on clinical course andcost of care. Br J Surg 2004; 91: 1528.

The invention has been described broadly and generically herein. Each ofthe narrower species and subgeneric groupings falling within the genericdisclosure also form part of the invention. This includes the genericdescription of the invention with a proviso or negative limitationremoving any subject matter from the genus, regardless of whether or notthe excised material is specifically recited herein. Other aspects ofthe invention are within the following claims.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are indicative of the level of skill of those skilled inthe art to which this invention pertains, and are herein incorporated byreference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patentor patent application was specifically and individually indicated to beincorporated by reference.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Nutrigenomic Analysis on Patients Using GeneBiomarkers

TABLE 7 Gene Biomarkers Gene Name Variation Result Notes ACE AngiotensinI-Converting Enzyme Del16 − − AHCY S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolaseL318L − − AHCY S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase K214R + − HeterozygousAHCY S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase L125L + − Heterozygous AHCYS-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase L135T − − AHCY S-adenosylhomocysteinehydrolase R38W − − APOC3 Apolipoprotein C C3175G − − CBS Cystathioninebeta-synthase C699T − − CETP Cholesteryl ester transfer protein G279A −− COMT Catechol o methyl transferase H62H − − COMT Catechol o methyltransferase V158M − − COMT Catechol o methyl transferase L136L − − COMTCatechol o methyl transferase P149L − − COMT Catechol o methyltransferase V92M − − COMT Catechol o methyl transferase A96V − − COMTCatechol o methyl transferase A72S − − COMT Catechol o methyltransferase Q73Q − − GST1 Glutathione S-transferase A313G − − GST1Glutathione S-transferase C341T − − Il-6 Interleukin 6 G(−174)C − − LPLLipoprotein lipase C1595G − − LPL Lipoprotein lipase N291S − − MAO AMonoamine oxidase A R297R + − Heterozygous MAO A Monoamine oxidase A5HTT + − Heterozygous MAO A Monoamine oxidase A A644G − − MTHFRMethylene Tetrahydrofolate reductase C677T + + Homozygous MTHFRMethylene Tetrahydrofolate reductase A1298C − − MTR Methionine synthaseA2756G + − Heterozygous MTR Methionine synthase R52G + − HeterozygousMTR Methionine synthase I1259V − − MTRR Methionine synthase reductaseA66G − − NAT1 N-acetyl transferase R64W − − NAT1 N-acetyl transferaseR187Q − − NAT1 N-acetyl transferase I114T − − NAT1 N-acetyl transferaseK268R − − eNOS Nitric Oxide synthase D298E − − eNOS Nitric Oxidesynthase G894T − − PPAR Peroxisomal Proliferator Activated ReceptorPro12 Ala + + Homozygous PPAR Peroxisomal Proliferator ActivatedReceptor C1431T − − PPAR Peroxisomal Proliferator Activated ReceptorC161T − − SOD1 Superoxide Dismutase G93A − − SOD1 Superoxide DismutaseA4V − − SOD1 Superoxide Dismutase A16V − − SOD3 Superoxide DismutaseC760G − − SUOX Sulfite oxidase L300L − − SUOX Sulfite oxidase S370S − −TNF-a Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha G(−308)A − − VDR Vitamin D ReceptorTaq 1 − − VDR Vitamin D receptor Bsm 1 − − VDR Vitamin D receptor Fok 1− −

AHCY S-Adrenosylhomocysteine

K214R +/− Heterozygous L125L +/− HeterozygousS-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase regulates cellular methylationreactions. Low levels of AHCY may result in slow psychomotordevelopment, hypotonia, elevated serum creatine kinase andtransaminases, prolonged prothrombin time, low albumin, mild hepatitiswith sparse rough endoplasmic reticulum, white matter atrophy andabnormally slow myelination. Plasma homocysteine may not be elevated,but there may be low concentrations of phosphatidylcholine and choline,with elevations of guanidinoacetate and cystathionine. Supportive topolymorphism of AHCY include folinic acid, tetrahydrobiopterin,methylcoblamin, riboflavin, and pyridoxine, and phosphatidylcholine.

MAO A Monoamine Oxidase A

R297R +/− Heterozygous 5HTT +/− HeterozygousMonoamine oxidase A is an enzyme that catalyzes the major inactivationpathway for the catecholamine neurotransmitters, noradrenaline,adrenaline and dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine. Therapeutic value hasbeen achieved with inhibitors of MAO in the treatment of depressiveillness. There are two isoforms, MAO-A and -B, and isoform-selectiveinhibitors. Monoamine oxidase has an important function in themetabolism of neuroactive amines in the central nervous system andperipheral tissues. Polymorphism of MAO A is closely linked todisturbances in emotion and in some instances may involve aggression,alcoholism, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, ADHD, ADD,antisocial behavior, substance abuse and anorexia nervosa. Supportivenutriture would be balanced essential fatty acids, folinic acid, 5HTP,pyridoxine, riboflavin, and methylcobalamin.

MTHFR Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase

A222V (C677T) +/+ HomozygousMethylene Tetrahydrofolate reductase catalyzes the conversion of 5, 1methylenetetrahydrofolate to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, which serves as amethyl group donor in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.Riboflavin deficiency is associated with low MTHFR activity and reducedlevels of 5 methyltetrahydrofolate. In humans, reduced enzyme activitycaused by the commonly occurring 677C>T substitution of the MTHFR geneis associated with elevated plasma homocysteine, stroke, vasculardisease, Parkinson's and neuropsychosis. The C677T mutation does notmean that an individual will develop these health problems but that theyare vulnerable. Vascular inflammation may be involved with polymorphismof C677T. The IV use of phosphatidylcholine will address vascularinflammation and if present, hypercoagulation. Individuals withpolymorphisms of MTHFR of either C677T or A1298C are vulnerable totoxins and often lack hepatic clearance of common exposures such asacetaminophen, solvents, mercury (in large body fish), viral orbacterial infections. The use of phosphatidylcholine may serve todetoxify the liver and other tissues and may be administered orally orby IV. The use of the following nutrients is supportive to polymorphismof MTHFR: folinic acid, tetrahydrobiopterin, methylcoblamin, riboflavin,pyridoxine, NADH, phosphatidylcholine and essential fatty acids.

MTR Methionine Synthase

A2756G +/− Heterozygous R52G +/− HeterozygousMethionine synthase carries out the vitamin B12-dependent methylation ofhomocysteine, using a methyl group from 5-methyltetrahydrofolate(5-methylTHF). In doing so it provides a crucial link between twoimportant metabolic systems, the single-carbon folate pathway and themethionine cycle. Methionine synthase is also required fordopamine-stimulated methylation of membrane phospholipids, a uniquesignaling activity of the D4 dopamine receptor. Supportive nutrientsinclude folinic acid and methylcobalamin with cellular support frombalanced essential fatty acids and phosphatidylcholine.

PPAR Peroxisomal Proliferator Activated Receptor

Pro12Ala +/+ HomozygousPeroxisomal Proliferator Activated Receptors function as transcriptionfactors regulating cell differentiation, development, cellularrespiration and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fatty acids andprotein. PPAR is a master key regulator of adipocyte differentiation,glucose homeostasis and mediates leptin levels in obese individuals andmodulates insulin sensitivity. PPAR is implicated in the pathology ofobesity, hepatic toxicity, atherosclerosis, neurological disease,essential fatty acid abnormalities, cognitive dysfunction, developmentaldelay and cancer. PPAR controls the oxidation pathways for fatty acidsand the production of prostaglandins. Nutrients supporting peroxisomalfunction include butyrate (a short chain fatty acid),phosphatidylcholine, riboflavin, biotin, manganese, methylcobalamin,pyridoxine, thiamin, folinic acid and essential fatty acids.

Example 2 Polymorphism and Nutrigenomics

Nutrigenomic tests were essential to prevent drug complications aftersurgery. In one case, a patient had surgery to remove a tumor and wasadministered codeine as a pain reliever. Although patient was doing wellafter the surgery, as soon as the treatment with codeine started shedeveloped a full-body rash, difficulty breathing, and an irregularheartbeat. When the patient was taken off the codeine, the patient'sreaction disappeared. Upon further study, it was found that the patientlacked the enzyme in her blood that metabolized the codeine intomorphine and other substances, so the patient was essentially beingoverdosed with codeine. The lack of the enzyme was directly related to avariation in the gene that expressed the protein of the enzyme. Thegenetic variation was a polymorphism between normal individuals andthose who carry it.

All references discussed herein are incorporated by reference. Oneskilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention iswell adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantagesmentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The present invention maybe embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit oressential attributes thereof and, accordingly, reference should be madeto the appended claims, rather than to the foregoing specification, asindicating the scope of the invention.

1. An interactive computerized method of linking a consumer and anutritional pharmacogeneticists offering the consumer's personalizednutrigenomic information through a central network site, the methodcomprising: a) providing a central integration site through which thenutritional pharmacogeneticists and the consumer communicate with eachother, the central integration site comprising a storage medium, b)storing a first database for maintaining a biochemical marker data forat least one biochemical marker in the storage medium, wherein thebiochemical marker is an indication for a normal or an abnormal geneexpression; c) storing a second database for maintaining a nutritionaldata for at least one nutrient in the storage medium, the nutritionaldata comprising a record on association and effects of the at least onenutrient with the at least one biochemical marker; d) receiving aconsumer's genetic test result containing at least one biochemicalmarker level from the central integration site; e) generating aconsumer's biochemical marker level set by comparing the at least onebiochemical marker level indicated in the consumer's genetic test resultwith the biochemical marker data information of the first database; f)comparing the consumer's biochemical marker level set with thenutritional data stored in the second database; g) generating a statusreport indicating personalized nutritional information for the consumer;and h) communicating the status report obtained in step (g) to theconsumer.
 2. The interactive computerized method of claim 1, wherein theconsumer is a healthy individual, a symptomatic patient, or anasymptomatic patient.
 3. The interactive computerized method of claim 1,wherein the nutritional information comprises information on interactionof at least one nutrient or drug with a biochemical marker indicated inthe consumer's genetic test result.
 4. The interactive computerizedmethod of claim 1, wherein the biochemical marker data of the firstdatabase indicates a low value, a high value and a target value for abiochemical marker indicated in the consumer's genetic test result,wherein the biochemical marker is an expressed gene product.
 5. Theinteractive computerized method of claim 5, wherein the target valuecomprises a mode value, a mean value, and a weighted average value. 6.The interactive computerized method of claim 1, wherein the storagemedium comprises a third database that maintains drug records fordetermining interaction between drugs and biochemical markers.
 7. Theinteractive computerized method of claim 1, wherein the at least onenutrient comprises an animal product or a plant product comprisingherbs, vitamins, minerals, small molecules, lipids, proteins,carbohydrates, electrolytes, enzymes, or coenzymes, or a combinationthereof.
 8. The interactive computerized method of claim 1, wherein thestep of generating the consumer's biochemical marker level set comprisesgenerating a consumer's percent status set that indicates a value foreach biochemical marker present in the consumer's genetic test result.9. The interactive computerized method of claim 1, wherein thenutritional information is provided for diagnosis, treatment and/orprevention of a disease or disorder.
 10. The interactive computerizedmethod of claim 9, wherein the diagnosis comprises indication of acardiac risk, CNS dysfunction, gastrointestinal dysfunction,deficiencies in lipid metabolism, hormonal imbalance, renal dysfunction,hepatic dysfunction, toxicity, tumor, hematological diseases, immunefunction, nitrogen retention, or cellular distortion.
 11. Theinteractive computerized method of claim 1, wherein the central networksite utilizes the Internet.
 12. The interactive computerized method ofclaim 1, wherein the central network site utilizes an intranet.
 13. Theinteractive computerized method of claim 1, wherein the consumer'sgenetic test result is entered into the central integration site throughsystems comprising an interactive telephone system, an automatic speechrecognition system, one or more questionnaire forms submitted viafacsimile, one or more questionnaire forms manually entered or scannedinto the computer system, a computer keyboard, a telephone keyboard, apointing device, or any combination thereof.
 14. The interactivecomputerized method of claim 1, wherein step (h) comprises communicationvia a printer, e-mail, a facsimile device, a visual display, a speechplayback system, telephone, or a combination thereof.
 15. Theinteractive computerized method of claim 1, wherein the consumer'sgenetic test result indicates abnormal expression of a proteincomprising Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme, S-adenosylhomocysteinehydrolase, Catechol-o-methyl transferase, Lipoprotein Lipase, Monoamineoxidase A, Methylene Tetrahydrofolate reductase, Methionine synthase,Methionine synthase reductase, Nitric Oxide synthase, N-acetyltransferase, Superoxide Dismutase, Sulfite oxidase, Vitamin D receptors,Cystathionine beta-synthase, Apolipoprotein C, Cholesteryl estertransfer protein, Glutathione S-transferase, Interleukin 6, Lipoproteinlipase, Peroxisomal Proliferator Activated Receptor, SuperoxideDismutase, Sulfite oxidase, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, or acombination thereof.
 16. The interactive computerized method of claim15, wherein the genetic test results indicate mutation, substitution,replacement, repetition, deletion, or translocation of one or more genesencoding the protein.
 17. The interactive computerized method of claim1, wherein the nutritional information comprises seeking or avoidance ofa particular nutrient or drug, or a counter indication of the particularnutrient or drug.
 18. An interactive computer network for providing to aconsumer nutritional information personalized to the consumer on thebasis of a consumer's genetic test result, the network comprising, a) acentral integration site that receives a consumer's genetic test resultindicating concentration or presence of one or more biochemical markersin a sample from the consumer, b) a storage medium coupled to thecentral integration site comprising a first database for maintainingbiochemical marker data information for at least one biochemical marker,a second database for maintaining a nutritional data for at least onenutrient in the storage medium, wherein the network generates a statusreport indicating the nutritional information personalized to theconsumer and communicates the status report to the consumer.
 19. Amethod for establishing and operating an interactive computer networklinking a consumer and a nutritional pharmacogeneticists through acentral integration site, the method comprising the steps: a) providinga central integration site to which the consumer and the nutritionalpharmacogeneticists connect electronically to exchange nutritionalinformation, the central integration site comprising a storage mediumcontaining two or more databases that store medical research data onbiochemical markers and association and effects of nutrients onbiochemical markers; b) establishing a commercial relationship throughthe central integration site between the consumer and the nutritionalpharmacogeneticists; c) linking the consumer to a plurality of servicesand products available through a user interface at the centralintegration site; d) establishing means to receive a consumer's genetictest result containing at least one biochemical marker level from thecentral integration site; e) generating a status report indicatingnutritional information personalized to the consumer on the basis of theconsumer's genetic test result; and f) communicating the status reportobtained in step (e) to the consumer.
 20. A computer program productcomprising a computer useable medium having program logic storedthereon, wherein the program logic comprises plurality of machinereadable codes to enable the computer network of claim 19 to linkconsumer and non-consumer members offering products, information andservices through a central network site, wherein the plurality ofmachine readable codes enable the central network site to collect andstore the offered information; enable the central network site to managecontent, organization and presentation of the offered information,maintain network interfaces, recruit network members, and fulfillrequests for the information or services offered through the centralnetwork site.